The purchase of a new or pre-owned vehicle is one of the biggest financial investments you’ll make. Deciding which car to buy will also affect your safety and comfort, and that of your passengers, for years to come. Before you buy a car, do your homework and ask yourself what features are most important to you in a vehicle. Read on for three steps to take when selecting the ideal car for you and your family.
If you’re just beginning your car search and wonder what to look for when purchasing a newer vehicle, safety should be your number one consideration. Sometimes you will find what seems to be the ideal vehicle, but upon close inspection, you may find the vehicle has safety issues. Review reliable sources like Consumer Reports. You’ll learn some cars are accidents waiting to happen. Even if they’re no longer being manufactured, they may still be on U.S. car lots. The Suzuki Samurai SUV, Chevy Cobalt and Ford Bronco are a few examples of vehicles with serious safety problems. From high roll-over risk to engines prone to catching fire, the last thing you want to buy is a car that’s dangerous.
Choosing a car that’s reliable is an essential step for any buyer because if a vehicle is unreliable, it will only cause you grief and cost you money. You may be tempted to buy a car that is priced so low it seems too good to be true. Be wary, though. Many buyers have fallen victim to this temptation and soon discover the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the car they bought. One way to safeguard yourself is to make sure your new car is covered by a comprehensive warranty.
Finding a car that fits your lifestyle is imperative, but it’s a step many buyers overlook. Be careful not to make a hasty decision based on emotion rather than common sense. If you live in the mountains or in the rugged country, all-wheel drive vehicles obviously make more sense than sleek sports cars. If you shuttle children from activity to activity or take frequent road trips or business trips, you’ll want to invest in a car that’s roomy and comfortable – perhaps a minivan. If you live in or commute to the city, a compact car that’s easy to park and gets good gas mileage may be your best option. A car that is not a good fit for your lifestyle isn’t a wise investment.
If you are in the market for a newer vehicle, contact us at DeBoer’s Auto and check out our extensive inventory of immaculate pre-owned vehicles. When you choose one of our vehicles, you can be certain you’re making a great choice.